Here at The Confident Marketer I write about life as a small business owner – from business tips, personal development and relationships to health and your daily environment. For a while now I've been wanting to write about the space from which you do your work, and how important it is to have a good energy, a good vibe there. I'm very mobile, I take my office with me no matter where I go – and my briefcase is packed with the things I need, so that no matter where I plug in I can create a positive, high energy environment. The office space I created at my main office in Nashville was created with very particular preferences and design for good vibes, too.
I'm no designer, so today I invited guest blogger Amanda Gates to contribute her expertise. Amanda, who can be found at AB Home Interiors, loves to plan out office space that actually feeds energy and positive vibe into the business. Here's what Amanda has to say.
When setting up an office, many small business owners are told to focus on their organization systems in order to build clientele and create profit – things like time management, customer service, and engagement. Getting rid of the clutter in your space and having a set system is definitely a sure way to success, but what about creating a vibe in your office that makes you more productive? Couldn't we all use a little more inspiration in our lives? We can actually use our office environment to help spark that next big idea. Here are three of my top tips to help you create an office with a great vibe, and ultimately help you make more money.
1) Paint
Bottom line, color affects our mood. Depending on the type of work you do, the color you choose should compliment your field. If you are an attorney and accustomed to arguing and negotiating all day, certain colors like red are a major party foul. The best colors for any office for any field are: steel and light blues, soft pinks, various creams and soft greens. These colors can be used on their own or together, but when combining many colors I recommend hiring a professional to help you choose them correctly.
2) Lighting
Good and bad lighting affects our mood. Bad lighting can strain our eyes, make us agitated and ultimately throw us into a headache…not a great way to work or be productive! Layer your lighting and if possible install dimmers. Having complete control over how your office is lit will make a huge difference in how you work. The best way to light an office is to have overhead recessed cans, a chandelier, or both, in combination with two or three lamps.
3) Indulge in the little things
When it comes to your surroundings the details matter. Think about how much time you spend in your office and the purpose of being in there. You are not there to surf the latest sale at Nordstroms. You are there to build your business and create a profit. In order to do that you need to invest and indulge in the little things. The best little things to create a great vibe are:
- Flowers
- Use vintage china and cloth napkins for snacks and meals
- Candles
- Art you love
Surround yourself with things that are decadent to make you feel special. When you take a little extra time to take care of yourself you’ll boost your energy and increase your bottom line.
Amanda offers links to several of her blog posts for more information.
How to design an office that makes you more money
Simple design techniques to help improve your bottom line
I appreciate Amanda sharing her expertise and experience with you today. Check out her website and her blog for lots of visuals that will help you get the good vibe office for your small business.
Wonderful post, Sue. I love a luxurious and functional office. For me, a comfortable chair is a must! I’m always surprised at how many offices are thrown together like an after thought. Make your office inviting, invigorating, and inspirational. I have also read on several occassions that yellows and golds are great for creative and intellectual energy–so they’re wonderful for workspaces!
Thanks, Tiffany. I like the idea of golds in an office, for sure! 🙂
Enjoyed the article. The addition of music and vanilla scented candles are part of my office set up too!
Good to see that other commenters enjoy these as well.
Lighting is big one for me. I love sunshine therefore I always make sure I have big windows and plenty of light coming in from outside. It helps me keep going for hours… Great tips!
Silvia, I’m with you on the sunshine!
Sue
I would like to add this as an option – soothing music! 🙂 ~ Carmen
Great suggestion, Carmen.
Thank you Sue and Amanda. Great tips especially about the fresh flowers. I need some to brighten up this November day! A couple of things I do as well: Keep items that remind you of your alma maters (I have two small special items on my desk from both of my universities.) If it wasn’t for the education I wouldn’t be self-employed! Secondly, I keep my work awards in my office. It’s an excellent reminder of what I’ve done for clients and where I need to be heading in the future.
This is a spot on post – it is the little things that count – I use linen handtowels in my office bathroom and special vanilla candles to make everything feel and smell wonderful!
Thanks, Heidi. Love the idea of the linen handtowels.
Sue